OpenFields

1400: Peatland futures

This paper is taken from the summary of findings of the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Commission of Inquiry on Peatlands

Year of Publication2011

Peatlands are the single most important terrestrial carbon store in the UK as well as including our largest semi natural habitats, producing much of our drinking water and holding a rich archive of cultural and environmental change. They have been identified as a priority for action under international agreements. Damaged peatlands are expensive because of increased greenhouse gas emissions, poorer water quality and loss of other ecosystem services. They may also exacerbate flood events. The UK has world leading expertise in peatland restoration. A speedy response to protect and restore our peatlands under a changing climate is challenging – but will cost us dear if we delay.